🗺️ Xianyuan Garden (Iso Teien)

Sengan-en (Iso Teien), built in 1658, was created by Shimazu Mitsuhisa, the lord of the Satsuma domain, as a villa for the Shimazu family. It covers an area of 5 hectares. The garden's architecture employs the technique of borrowed scenery, using Sakurajima as a backdrop and Kinko Bay as a pond. It is a "borrowed scenery garden" that integrates the magnificent landscapes of Kagoshima into its scenery. The design style of the garden also reflects the historical influence of Chinese culture on the Shimazu family, which engaged in trade with Ryukyu and China at that time. The inner palace of the garden was used as a guesthouse to host important domestic and foreign guests of the Shimazu family. Visitors can enter the palace for a tour. The beautiful decorations inside and the breathtaking views of Sakurajima from within the palace are highlights not to be missed, allowing one to experience the elegant lifestyle of the feudal lord of that era. Additionally, Sengan-en offers many activities to experience traditional Japanese culture, including a samurai dress-up experience in formal armor (additional fees and advance reservations required). There is also a museum, "Shoko Shuseikan," where visitors can learn about the 800-year history and culture of the Shimazu family. The museum is an important cultural property of Japan and is registered as a World Cultural Heritage site. Furthermore, there is a "Satsuma Kiriko" factory where visitors can closely observe the production process of this traditional Kagoshima craft and the skilled techniques of the artisans.

In 2015, it was registered as an important asset constituting a World Cultural Heritage. You can enter the interior of the palace and experience what it feels like to be a feudal lord. Make full use of the Japanese garden that showcases the magnificent scenery of Sakurajima and Kagoshima. You can also participate in a samurai dress-up experience wearing formal armor. Additionally, you can enjoy dining and purchase local souvenirs within the park.